Strong Community Support Helped Local Businesses Survive Pandemic, Now They’re Ready for Visitors

The best traveling experiences are often made in spots locals love the most. Local love means a lot to these businesses who started up not long before the pandemic. Their dedication and creativity through that tough time made them fast favorites in Happy Valley. Make sure to add them to your list.

Happy Valley’s quaint, historic communities are pulling out all the stops to make the July 9-11 weekend one to remember. From festivals to fireworks, to new ways to experience art, music and more, gather your family or friends and head to your new happy place for a full slate of first-time events and weekend fun.

Happy Valley boasts bountiful outdoor recreation; beautiful gardens and museums, interesting history and architecture, a thriving craft beverage scene, and a variety of restaurants and farm-to-fork dining options that appeal to individuals and families. Part of the fun of discovering all that Happy Valley has to offer is exploring the communities of State College, Bellefonte, Philipsburg, Boalsburg and Millheim, each having their own unique vibe and each home to hidden gems worth checking out.

Happy Valley is known for exuding small-town charm while boasting big-city amenities, including an inspiring and innovative arts and performing arts scene. From the striking marquee of the beautifully restored and century-old Rowland Theatre in Philipsburg to colorful artwork that has transformed the facades of many buildings in Downtown State College, appreciation for the arts is outwardly evident.

Home to Penn State University, State College is a safe, vibrant and diverse university town. If it’s been a while since you explored the downtown, plan to spend a day or two visiting new establishments and popular favorites.

Boalsburg is a quaint town where history is on full display everywhere you look. Quaint shops, plentiful dining options, and abundant, nearby outdoor recreational opportunities make Boalsburg an ideal destination for individuals and families to spend a day.

Goot Essa's modern website conveys traditional Amish ways while enabling more customers to purchase its gourmet line of artisan cheeses.

Agriculture is deeply embedded in Centre County’s heritage, and signs of Happy Valley’s agricultural roots run deep in our picturesque valleys. There are plenty of ways to experience your own ‘Agventure.’

Philipsburg, PA is a quiet small town with historic charm and plenty of hidden gems worth checking out. So pack up the car and head “over the mountain” for an enjoyable visit to this Happy Valley community.